Richard Bruce Parker

Richard Bruce Parker, age 84, of Albertville, Alabama, passed away on June 29, 2026, at Shepherd’s Cove Hospice. Richard was born on December 3, 1941, in Houston, Texas, just days before the attack on Pearl Harbor, while his father was serving in the United States Coast Guard. He was the son of Grayce Rumbley Parker and Bruce McClintock Parker. At the age of three, Richard moved with his family to Iowa City, Iowa, where he was raised and built the foundation of his life. A talented athlete, Richard attended the University of Northern Iowa on a football scholarship before transferring to the University of Iowa, where he earned a degree in Marketing, Labor, and Management. He remained a proud Hawkeye for the rest of his life, always sporting his Iowa gear. In the 1980s, Richard moved to Birmingham, Alabama, where he co-founded Parker & Associates with his business partner, Bill Mullins. Together, they built a successful food service brokerage company, earning respect for their hard work, integrity, and entrepreneurial spirit. Richard was devoted to his family and cherished the relationships he built throughout his life. He was a longtime member of First English Lutheran Church in Iowa City and later attended First Methodist Church in Albertville, Alabama. Later in life, Richard and his wife Sue spent time living in Gulf Shores, Alabama, where he developed a deep love for the beach. He embraced the coastal lifestyle, the slower pace, and the simple pleasure of time spent by the water, especially during family gatherings and shared traditions there. Affectionately called "Arby" by his grandchildren, Richard will be remembered for his warmth, loyalty, and steady presence, as well as his lifelong passion for Iowa Hawkeye sports. Richard is survived by his beloved wife of over 30 years, Katie Sue McKee Parker, whom he married on December 30, 1995; his sons Jeffrey Parker and Ian Parker; sister Lynelle Brummell; step-sister Suzanne Myers; stepsons Christopher Mayhall (Sheila) and Shannon Mayhall (Penny); stepdaughter Scarlett Mayhall Powell (Brad); chosen daughter; Jennifer Lovvorn; ten grandchildren; and thirteen great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Grayce and Bruce Parker, and his stepmother, Katherine Parker. In accordance with his wishes, Richard has been cremated and no formal funeral service will be held. His family will gather privately to celebrate his life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Shepherd’s Cove Hospice in Albertville, Alabama, in appreciation for the compassionate care they provided. Arrangements entrusted to Albertville Memorial Chapel.

Richard Bruce Parker

December 3, 1941 - June 29, 2026